Leader, Educator & Friend Rolled Into One NEON Shirt!

Freshman Orientation Aide (FOA)

Pairs (or trios) of FOAs will work to enhance the acclimation of new freshmen to the College and have the responsibility of accompanying their students to all mandatory Orientation activities. After Orientation, FOAs are expected to continue to serve as role models and resources for their students.

Transfer & More Orientation Aide (TMOA)

will work to enhance the acclimation of transfer students to the College and have the responsibility of accompanying their students to all mandatory Orientation activities. After Orientation, TMOAs are expected to continue to serve as role models and resources for their students. TMOAs have the unique opportunity to help welcome international, exchange and non-traditional aged students to the College.

Responsibilities for All Positions:

Attend and fully participate in training and all orientation events (see dates below)

Serve as a positive role model

Uphold all W&M rules and regulations as well as orientation expectations

Return to campus in time for training start (8 AM August 21, 2018)

Be available to work ALL of orientation (August 24-28, 2018)

Maintain enthusiasm and ensure participation at all orientation events

Minimum academic success (a 2.5 cumulative GPA during the time of application and at the end of Spring Semester 2018)

Good standing in terms of honor or student conduct offenses (Contact Lauren Garrett before submission of application if you have either.)

Benefits of Orientation Position:

Significant leadership experience

Having a lasting impact on the future of William and Mary

Creating connections with a variety of students from the greater W&M community

Working with a team and meeting student leaders, new students and new friends

Gaining more knowledge of and an appreciation for William and Mary

Orientation meal plan for all staff and an early move-in process for on-campus OAs

Those neon yellow T-shirts

Frequently Asked Questions:

How competitive is the process?

The New Student Orientation program at William & Mary is nationally recognized for our outstanding staff. This being said, the application process is competitive. Numbers vary year to year.

Is preference given to students who are members of certain student organizations?

Applicants are given credit for their level of involvement and commitment to any aspect of the W&M community. Preference is not given to one organization or group over another. The depth and breadth of experience is more important than having one particular experience.

Can I work another job at any time?

You may hold another job, but NOT DURING orientation. You may not use another job or activity as an excuse for not attending training. Students cannot be Orientation Aides and Freshman Resident Assistants at the same time.

What happens during training?

You will spend time getting to know the other staff members and your Orientation Area Director(s). You will also learn about the services offered on campus, the advising/registration process, and issues that may affect new students. There is also a commitment to expose you to experiences that will enhance your leadership skills.

Are there additional opportunities for OAs to work with new students beyond the fall?

Orientation Aides are encouraged to maintain their relationship with their group and staff through the year and beyond. Besides the new student orientation program in August, there are other opportunities to assist with the general first-year student experience over the course of the academic year. You may also have the opportunity to work with Spring Orientation or the selection process for the orientation staff in 2019.

When will I know if I got a position?

We will make every effort to inform all interviewed candidates by email via the timeline above. Those interviewed candidates will receive an email to review their application portal which will contain your final decision.

Additional Information:

If you would like additional information, contact FYE or [[orientation,email Orientation]]. Please print this page for your records (printer friendly icon at bottom of page).